Krill Oil: What is it made from?

By Ben Winters

Krill oil is gaining popularity as a potent dietary supplement with an impressive range of potential benefits in supporting heart health and healthy brain function.

Krill oil supplements are becoming recognised worldwide for their benefits in offering support to joint health, cardiovascular health, liver health and brain function.

The oil used in supplements is extracted from krill, which are small, planktonic crustaceans that belong to the order Euphausiacea.

They dwell in the depths of our oceans, thriving in vast swarms that can number in the billions. These small, shrimp-like crustaceans, typically measuring less than two inches in length, play a crucial role in marine ecosystems. 

One of the most prominent krill species, Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba), is often hailed as a keystone species in the Southern Ocean. Their significance stems from their position near the bottom of the food chain, making them a primary food source for numerous marine species, including whales, seals, penguins, and various fish.

Krill's ecological importance extends beyond their role as a convenient snack for larger marine creatures.

They partake in carbon cycling, a vital process in which they consume phytoplankton near the ocean's surface, absorb carbon dioxide, and then descend to deeper waters, effectively transporting this carbon away from the atmosphere. This has a global impact on climate regulation and underscores the fundamental role these tiny organisms play in maintaining the health of our oceans and, by extension, the planet.

While krill are undeniably essential for marine ecosystems, their significance also extends to human well-being. The primary focus of our fascination with krill centres on the oil that can be extracted from these small crustaceans. 

Krill oil has gained substantial attention in recent years due to its many potential health benefits, which make it a worthwhile addition to the range of dietary supplements that are available. 

It has a rich nutritional profile, which includes essential components like omega-3 fatty acids, phospholipids, and astaxanthin. These elements collectively offer a range of advantages for human health.

One of the most significant advantages of krill oil is its potential to support cardiovascular health. Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), play a pivotal role in helping lower triglyceride levels, supporting healthy blood pressure, and heart health. Moreover, krill oil's unique phospholipid structure may enhance the absorption of these fatty acids, potentially making it a more effective choice than traditional fish oil supplements.

Krill oil has been linked to supporting brain function.

Omega-3s, particularly DHA, are used to maintain cognitive health and support brain development in children. Some research suggests that krill oil's omega-3s may help memory, focus, and mood regulation. This makes it an intriguing option for those looking to support brain health throughout their lives. 

Joint health is another area where krill oil provides support.

The omega-3 fatty acids found in krill oil have the capacity to promote joint mobility and support overall joint comfort. Furthermore, the presence of astaxanthin in krill oil may enhance joint health by functioning as an antioxidant, thereby mitigating oxidative stress within joint tissues.

Krill oil's unique blend of omega-3 fatty acids, phospholipids, and astaxanthin presents a myriad of potential health benefits. From cardiovascular support to brain health and joint comfort, this marine-derived supplement has captured the attention of those seeking natural and holistic ways to enhance their well-being.